We all need to do our part to make the Internet safer and more secure.

But what is your part?

Well, that depends on where and how you use the Internet.

Governments, large and small companies, schools, non-profits and individual technology users should be aware of the vulnerabilities they might experience and take measures to address them.

Additionally, in October we ask everyone to take some time to educate the people in their orbit about staying safe online.

It could be going to your children’s classroom and teaching online safety, reminding employees of company Internet usage polices or posting materials on school, community centers or police station bulletin boards. There are many ways and many resources available.

There is also personal responsibility. And that starts with each of us doing our part and it begins with STOP. THINK. CONNECT. Everyone needs to take security precautions, understand the potential consequences of actions and behaviors and connect and enjoy the benefits of the Internet.

Some ways to start doing that include:

Keeping a Clean Machine and making sure your devices are malware- free and have updated software, web browsers and operating system.

Hold a “family conference” to discuss how each member of the family can help to make their personal computer and other online devices safe from cyberattacks. Read through and discuss the suggestions from the STOP. THINK. CONNECT. tip sheet. (Download athttp://staysafeonline.org/stop-think-connect/tips-and-advice.)

Add the following signature line to the bottom of all your emails, “October 2012 is National Cyber Security Awareness Month. Let’s make our online lives safer and more secure! Check out details at http://www.staysafeonline.org/ncsam.”

We have specific ways teachers, schools, businesses, libraries, local government, community groups, law enforcement and religious-based groups can get involved in National Cyber Security Awareness Month. Visit http://www.staysafeonline.org/ncsam/get-involved/ for more information.